Close encounters of the 'Drawn' kind

England survived a tensely fought battle against South Africa to yet again save the match with the last wicket remaining. In doing so, England equalled the record of West Indies of having drawn most matches while nine down in the second innings.

This feat has been achieved 20 times in Test cricket.

England and West Indies have encountered 6 such situations while Australia have been involved in 4 such matches, India in 2 and Pakistan and New Zealand - 1 match apiece.

Interestingly, West Indies still hold the record of playing the most matches where they have not being able get the final wicket and secure a win. They have been involved in 5 such matches where they were unable pick up the last man. Giving them a close fight is England with 4 such games. Australia are third with 3 while South Africa, who encountered two games in this series itself, are placed fourth along with India.